Sara Orellana
By Sara Orellana
We have been trained to believe that our personal and professional lives should be separate. Anything that is bothering us at home should not interfere with our work and vice versa.
Let’s be honest. We are people who have emotions and stress. We cannot turn off a portion of our life at any given time. When I teach time management, among other topics, I always state to schedule family and personal time before work commitments. Life is about balance, not closing off parts of ourselves.
Having a support system for both my work and personal life has allowed me to thrive in those areas. We need people outside of our families and significant others who will listen to our problems, be a safe place to vent, and motivate us when we feel like the world is crashing in.
As a working mother who has pretty much raised my daughter on my own, having a comprehensive support system was vital. There were days I felt like I said “no” more than any other word. Between the terrible twos and threes and a staff who wanted to take shortcuts, I felt like I spent my days correcting people. That was not a good feeling, and it took a toll on my mental and emotional health.
Developing a comprehensive support system meant I could ask for help. But finding a solution in one area would not correct the problem. I needed solutions on all fronts. My support system understood this, and it is the reason I am successful.
When building a support system, here are some key personalities and experiences to think about including:
• A person who excels at listening. Sometimes all you need is to be heard.
• Someone who has walked the path you are on.
• A person who has relationships similar to yours.
• Someone who has accomplished what you want to accomplish in your personal life.
• A person who has accomplished what you want to achieve in your professional life.
• There should be at least one person who will motivate you in all areas of your life.
• Also, if you are a parent, someone who has raised a child and a person raising a child.
A support system built off of personal and professional goals will serve you in ways you could never imagine. Struggling with morning drop-offs? Find someone who has been there will have empathy and suggestions. Excited about a work project even though it will mean less time with your family? Have someone who has been there or is there will help you understand your feelings, your family’s feelings, and help you create a successful plan. Such a group will help you improve your relationships and achieve your goals more quickly and efficiently.
Sara Orellana, MS, MPH is an independent entrepreneur who specializes in strategic planning, leadership, and grant writing. She can be reached at sara@3raptorconsulting.com.